I received a gift today. And this holiday season, I received many gifts.

[lizziegrace]

Today, a beautiful fleece throw and a candle arrived. The card read "A Warm Hug From Everyone At DU Who Loves You." I'm speechless. I'm so very grateful. I'm so touched. Someone I've never met sent *me* a gift of warmth. I feel unworthy, as so many are struggling. I'm just vocal about it...

I also received the gift of a plane ticket in the fall to see a city I've always dreamed of seeing. In return, I now have one of the dearest, most stubborn, kind, tenacious and giving friends I've ever known.

Some of you have offered prayers, good wishes, and even money. I'm in awe of the generosity of the people here on DU.

Perhaps all the trials and struggles haven't been to wear me down, but force me to do something I rarely can do, and that is ask or accept help. I can give it freely, I just am unable to accept it.

So the miracles of the season and of life are the things to grow out of struggle and hardship. Those gifts of friendship, love and kindness. I see that now.

Thank you. Thank you all. :hug:

[VenusRising]

1. I can't think of a more deserving DUer.

You're the bees knees, and I'm adopting you. :)

:hug:

[lizziegrace]

3. I'm old enough to be your...

older sister. ;)

:hug:


You're one of those treasures. You helped Thom cook when I was too sick to help. :hug:

[RetroLounge]

4. Hey! I cooked the Chicken!

:hide:

You are deserving of every gift that comes your way.

You my dear, and your friendship was the best gift I got this year.

:hug:

RL

[lizziegrace]

6. I didn't know you cooked the chicken...

I must have been at the airport picking up Lelapin.

Thank you.

And you are one of the best blessings I've received this year.

:hug:

[VenusRising]

7. That's okay.

I don't have an older sister. :)

I'd do anything to help you out, and I got to spend time with Thom.

Double gift. :)

:hug:

[lizziegrace]

10. ...

:hug:

[KitchenWitch]

2. You are a beautiful soul and you richly deserve the gifts in life!

:hug:

[lizziegrace]

5. Thank you

we *all* deserve the gifts of this life. Especially the ones that are not the material kind.

:hug:

[lost-in-nj]

8. What city!?!?!?

NY???@!!!!?!?!?!

close to me.???...

lost

[lizziegrace]

9. NYC

It was Thom's dinner party. :hug:

[ThomCat]

11. And I am very, very glad you were able to come.

:hug:

Somehow, we'll get you out here again.

[SallyMander]

12. Awww -- you deserve it!

:hug:


How are you feeling today?

[lizziegrace]

13. Finally getting better

more steroids and antibiotics and I'm officially among the living. ;)

[SPKrazy]

14. I somehow imagine that you are worth it lizziegrace

:yourock:
:hi:

:hug:

[lizziegrace]

15. Thank you, but

we're all worth it. :hug:

[1gobluedem]

16. Oh, that is so cool

You deserve it too. :hug:

Glad you are on the mend.

[lizziegrace]

17. Thanks!

:hug:

[CaliforniaPeggy]

18. My dear lizzie!

So glad you're on the mend, and that this gift has warmed your heart as well as your own self...

I will always treasure that week you and I shared...

Someday, I'd love to have you out here, so I can return the favor!

:hug:

[hisownpetard]

19. It's great to hear your spirits lifting. I hope that 2008 brings you all the happiness

you so deserve!

I nominate you for Goodwill Ambassador of DU.

Everyone loves you, really!!!!:bounce: :hi: :loveya: